Introducing the 2025 Aotearoa Alternative Awards!
Five student radio stations across the motu (including our very own Radio Control 99.4FM) make up the Student Radio Network — together, they represent Aotearoa New Zealand’s contemporary, alternative music and broadcast community.
Presented in association with Irirangi Te Motu | NZ On Air, and with the incredible support of sponsors, the 2025 Aotearoa Alternative Awards celebrate emerging local musicians and the passionate volunteers who breathe life into our stations and communities.
This year’s ceremony will be held at Te Papaioea, Palmerston North, and hosted by local station Radio Control 99.4FM. Station Manager Michael Tile Vamaua says, “Control is beyond excited to host this year’s ceremony! We can’t wait to celebrate all the amazing mahi of our dedicated volunteer community and the creativity of our musicians — the passion and lifeblood that flows through the SRN!”
The ceremony kicks off at 7pm on Saturday, 8 November, and will be streamed LIVE at srn.nz, as well as simulcast across all five SRN station FM frequencies throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
Regional watch parties will take place in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland (95bFM), Ōtautahi Christchurch (RDU 98.5FM), and Ōtepoti Dunedin (Radio One 91FM).
There are 10 national awards to go out, with categories including Te Tohu Hopunga Puoro Mariu Roa (Favourite Album), Te Tōtahi Toa (Favourite Single), Te Tohu Kaipuoro Toa (Favourite Solo Artist) and Te Rōpū Mariu (Favourite Group).
Students can also vote for Te Tohu Kōwhiringa Tangata (the People’s Choice Award), out of a list of every artist who has had a song playlisted on the Student Radio Network between 9 September 2024 and 8 September 2025 - That's over 1000 artists to pick from! Click here to cast your vote before midnight Sunday 26th October.
For more information on the awards and the full list of nominees, head to SRN.nz
Click here to read to full Press Release from the Student Radio Network